At the same time, former Ministers Dallas Alahapperuma and G.L. Peiris, Western Provincial Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunga and several political party leaders participated in the media briefing.

NFF leader Wimal Weerawansa said that UPFA’s decision to give nominations to former president Mahinda Rajapaksa is historical.

Democratic Left Front leader Wasudeva Nanayakkara also expressed his views during the media conference, saying that despite having agreements and disagreements regarding the matter, the new unison will erase the past and look forward to the future.

Former Minister Dallas Alahapperuma said that nobody can stand against the communiqué issued by UPFA General Secretary Susil Premajayantha.

He added that the letter was signed by the UPFA General Secretary under the approval of the President.

Therefore, no one has an ethical right to oppose the matter.

President Maithripala Sirisena had told during the meeting with UPFA coalition leaders yesterday, neither the SLFP prime ministerial candidacy nor party group leadership will be given to Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The President had further said that even SLFP nominations will not be given to Mahinda under the prevailing circumstances.

However, it was reported that a final decision will be announced today after considering the matter further.

Awaiting the President’s announcement on this matter, Mahinda Rajapaksa faction cancelled the media conference they had convened at Narahenpita Abhayaramaya this morning.

Later they convened the media conference after the UPFA decision was announced this noon.